2023 Mitsubishi Outlander ES Quick Review

A fourth-generation Mitsubishi Outlander was released in 2022, with the range starting with this model – the ES that starts at $37,240 for front-wheel drive or $39,740 for all-wheel drive . That gives you plenty of midsized SUV for the money, but how does the base model stack up as an overall package?

Pricing & Features

The ES's equipment level is fairly basic as you would expect for a base model, though there are also some good features. There are LED headlights, daytime running lights and front turn signals, 18-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone climate, paddleshift levers for manually controlling the CVT auto, driving modes, electric park brake, and smartphone-mirroring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

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The ES is the only model in the range that comes with five seats. Other variants offer a 5+2 layout for an extra pair of seats in the third row (folding out of the floor).

The next-model-up LS costs from $40,740. In addition to the seven-seater cabin, this variant brings notable additions such as privacy glass, LED front foglights, keyless entry/start, wireless phone charging, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, and leather coverings for the steering wheel and gearlever.

Practicality is enhanced, too, with two USB sockets in the rear console, while the second row bench adds a sliding function. However, seven-seater Outlanders also lose the ES's full-size spare - adopting a space-saver instead (or a tyre kit in the case of the PHEV).

Boot space also shrinks slightly to 478 litres, though even the ES five-seater's 485L cargo capacity is relatively small when compared to key medium SUV rivals.

Safety

The Mitsubishi Outlander holds a five-star ANCAP safety rating.

To help avoid a crash in the first place, the Japanese SUV's advanced safety and driver assistance systems include forward collision mitigation with pedestrian & cyclist detection and junction assist, adaptive cruise control, blind spot warning, lane departure warning and prevention, and rear automatic emergency braking.

Key Rivals

The 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander ES faces intense competition in the midsize SUV market. Key rivals include:

• Mazda CX-5
• Hyundai Tucson
• Honda CR-V
• Nissan X-Trail
• Toyota RAV4

While these rivals present strong alternatives, the Outlander ES stands out for its affordability and impressive set of standard features.

Should I put it on my shortlist?

The 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander ES is a rare medium SUV offering AWD for less than $40,000, while owners can appreciate up to 10 years of factory warranty if they continually service with Mitsu dealers. It's also worth cross-shopping against the Nissan X-Trail ST that shares its platform and, while lacking the longer warranty offer, does come with seven seats for almost identical money.